Unlocking the Secrets of the Best Short-Game Players: Wedge Setups for Success
When you’re out on the golf course, especially around the greens, skill is essential. But let’s be real—your equipment plays a huge role too! If you’re curious about the gear that the top short-game specialists are using, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve taken a deep dive into the short-game setups of the best players currently crushing it on the PGA Tour.
The 2025 season is shaking things up with some fascinating stats, particularly when it comes to Strokes Gained around the green. So, who are the big names leading the pack? We’ve done the legwork and compiled their wedge setups to see what’s fueling their game.
The Scoop on Top Players and Their Wedges
Okay, let’s get into it! Here are the top 10 golfers making waves in the Strokes Gained category around the greens this season, along with the wedges they trust:
| Player | Wedges Used |
|---|---|
| Matt Wallace | Vokey SM10 (50°, 54°), WedgeWorks Proto (60°) |
| Matteo Manassero | Vokey SM10 (50°, 54°), WedgeWorks (58°) |
| Aaron Baddeley | Callaway Jaws MD5 (52°, 56°, 60°) |
| Danny Willett | Cobra Snakebite (50°, 54°, 58°) |
| Hideki Matsuyama | Cleveland RTX 4 Forged Prototype (52°, 56°, 60°) |
| Beau Hossler | Vokey SM9 (48°, 56°), WedgeWorks (60°) |
| Peter Malnati | Vokey SM10 (52°, 56°, 60°) |
| Andrew Novak | Cleveland RTX ZipCore (50°, 54°, 60°) |
| Min Woo Lee | Callaway Opus Platinum (50°), Vokey SM10 (56°), WedgeWorks (60°) |
| Michael Kim | Vokey SM9 (52°), SM10 (56°), WedgeWorks Proto (60°) |
Now, that’s a lineup that reflects some serious talent! Let’s take a closer look at their preferences and what we can learn from them.
The Vokey Dominance
It’s almost uncanny how prevalent Vokey wedges are among these players. Seven out of the ten top golfers are using at least one Vokey wedge in their bag. Whether it’s the SM9, SM10, or a custom WedgeWorks Proto, Titleist has clearly earned its stripes among tour pros. So, if you’re looking to improve your own game, it might be worth exploring these popular options!
The 60-Degree Love Affair
Here’s something interesting: eight of our top ten players rock a 60-degree wedge. Some stick with off-the-shelf models while others opt for prototype designs or custom grinds, but one thing’s for sure—having that high-lofted lob wedge in the bag is a common denominator for success. It’s no surprise that this little gem is a go-to for finesse shots around the greens!
The Role of Wedge Shafts
Now, let’s shed some light on something that often gets overlooked: wedge shafts. Many players might focus solely on the clubhead, but the shafts play a silent yet crucial role in how you perform around the greens. Among this group, the True Temper Dynamic Gold Tour Issue shafts (S400 or S300) are the most commonly used.
These shafts are designed to minimize spin inconsistencies on those tricky partial shots, and there’s not a single lightweight, high-launch shaft among them. This tells us that when it comes to precision and control, these players are going for the gold—or in this case, the dynamic gold!
Lessons for the Everyday Golfer
So, what can we take away from all this? First things first, look at your own wedge setup. Is it serving you well around the greens? If not, it might be time to consider a pro fitting. Proper loft, bounce, and shaft can make all the difference in transforming you from an average player to a more accurate one.
You don’t have to be a pro to appreciate the importance of the right equipment, and these top-tier players show us just how vital it is to have the right tools in the bag.
Get Inspired to Upgrade
Feel a bit inspired to look into your own gear? You’re not alone! Every golfer, regardless of skill level, can benefit from taking a closer look at their wedge setups. Just like we’ve seen with these top players, making the right adjustments to loft and bounce can significantly enhance your performance around the greens.
Final Thoughts
So, whether you’re sitting down to analyze your current wedges or considering a new purchase, remember: the right tools can elevate your game. From Vokey to Cleveland, there’s a world of options out there—just waiting for you to unlock your potential. Check out this buyer’s guide for a deeper dive into the best wedges available!
Remember, improving your short game is all about finding what works best for you. So grab your gear, hit the greens, and get to work perfecting that short game!
